The artwork entitled “Mary Ellison Embroidering,” created in 1877 by Mary Cassatt, is a remarkable example of the Realism art movement. It is an oil painting on canvas and falls within the genre of portraiture. This particular piece is housed at the Philadelphia Museum of Art in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States.
The artwork captures a moment of serene domesticity, depicting a young woman engaging in the act of embroidery. The subject is portrayed with a gentle, introspective expression, suggesting a sense of calm and concentration. Cassatt’s skillful use of oil paint creates a rich texture that can be observed in the delicate handling of the subject’s dress and the embroidery itself. The artwork’s composition is balanced, with the woman positioned slightly off-center, allowing the viewer to appreciate the fine details of her work and attire. The background, rendered in deeper, warmer tones provides a contrast that draws attention to the lighter shades and the intricate stitch work in the foreground. Cassatt’s mastery of capturing the essence of everyday moments is evident in the subtle interplay of light and shadow, which imbues the painting with a lifelike quality and an atmosphere of quietude.
